Seven Good Reasons to Take Up Biking

Most of us learn to ride a bicycle at an early age. They say you never forget how to ride a bike, but if you haven’t ridden in decades, your reintroduction to the activity can be a bit wobbly. Before you know it, however, you’ll be riding like a 12-year-old again.

There are lots of good reasons to climb aboard a bicycle. Here are seven of them.

1. It’s a Low Impact Way to Get in Better Shape

Bicycling is much less stressful on the knees, feet and ankles than running or jogging, while still providing many of their benefits. Those in their 40s, 50s and 60s may find biking an easy, pain-free experience.

2. It is Affordable

While serious bikers may spend $1,000-$1,5000 or more on a bicycle, for most recreational bikers, a good quality bicycle can be purchased for under $500. Choosing the right bike is important, however, so make sure you understand the differences between a mountain bike, road bike, hybrid and others that are available. It is also critical you get a bike that is appropriate for your height.

3. It’s a Terrific Family Activity or to Enjoy Alone

You can enjoy cycling with a group of friends and family or head out on the road alone. Many find a leisurely bike ride as rejuvenating as time meditating. Family members of all ages can enjoy the activity (especially on designated paved bike trails) and even bike trailers are available to bring the little ones along.

4. It Can Be Enjoyed in a Variety of Ways

Odds are there could be off-road trails near your community for mountain and off-road bikes and there may be paved “rails to trails” bike paths that prohibit powered vehicles. Serious road course bikers will use the side of the roads. Many communities have become increasingly bike friendly, encouraging in-city bike use.

5. It is Eco-Friendly Transportation

Almost one million Americans bikes to work every day. Sadly, that is barely one half of one percent of all workers. Cycling, however, is a very affordable form of transportation and can greatly reduce your carbon footprint, even when just riding bikes for errands.

6. It Reduces Traffic

Just about every bike reduces a car on the roadways. Even modern, planned communities are including bike paths and accounting for more bikers in their plans. As more people work from home and see biking as an alternative to driving, traffic may continue to lessen.

7. The Number of Paved Trails is Increasing

Various states have embraced bicycling on a variety of levels. Some have long term plans to be able to bicycle across their entire state. Some paved trails already stretch for hundreds of miles allowing for day and days long biking adventures. Millions have been spent building new trails and bike and walking bridges across dangerous roadways.

Before you decide bicycling is not for you, borrow or rent a bike and find a paved trail near you. You may just rediscover this healthful, enjoyable activity.

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